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Tuesday, August 12, 2014

A CRUSHING BLOW

We lost a great one yesterday-

If you have never experienced the black fog of depression, consider it a blessing. I laugh and say I come from a long line of depressed people; it is no laughing matter. Truthfully it is the toughest battle I have ever faced--to keep my head above the suffocating waves of sadness and grief that threaten to pull me under at times. The thick mist of despair which closes in and blocks all vision of reason can literally choke the life from you. Thankfully I have learned the anti-dote--but the silent attack of the dark can creep up on me before I know it--leaving me blindly grasping for a breath of hope before the darkness swallows me whole. My head knows narcissism is the root cause, but in the depths of sorrow, reason flies out the door.The Bible is full of depressed people. Read the Psalms---David knew the cave. Why else would one sit under a bean tree in the hot sun lamenting God's unfairness? What else would cause you to sit and listen to the lectures of three so-called friends about your many failings. What must the atmosphere felt like as the disciples hid in that room following their Master's death? Yes--there has always been depression beginning with the fall---as Adam and Eve walked away with heads hung low in disgrace.I know the cure---I know what helps---and there are still times...I pray for the family of this great actor who helped us all to laugh and for the many who suffer this age old silent enemy of the spirit. Praying for hope and solace for those in the depths of the pit known as depression. Praying we know our cries are heard and we will be lifted back to solid ground. Praying for the joy which comes with trust in the Lord.

I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and put their trust in the LORD.

9 comments:

Well said! We never know the depth of despair some people face daily so we must be on constant guard to be kind, discerning, and nonjudgmental. I was reading that very verse lat night, very uplifting scripture.

I can tell you..depression is real. I don't mind sharing..my husband has many ailments, (thanks to having 3 strokes at age 39-nine yrs ago)--depression is a real issue..not making light of your post, I did not know Robin Williams..just saying..I fully understand how and why he came to the conclusion he did. Depression is a ugly illness..and often overlooked.

It has been a struggle for years for me, Linda. Thankfully God has shown me how I should deal with it--but it does sneak up on me at times. My entire family has struggled--so there is a genetic link for sure. I think there are days we all say "Take me home, Lord Jesus!"

Oh Lulu, what a touching post. I don't know anyone who hasn't been through darkness in their lives. Whether there is a diagnosis or not, it's all so hard to negotiate. I'm so glad you know how to deal with the coming shadows, but I agree that it can jump in fast too.I join you in your prayers for Robin Williams and his family. What a terrible ordeal. My good friend lost her daughter this way less than a year ago. The sadness and regret is overwhelming. May God bless all who struggle, and give them the support they need.Ceil

LuLu I didn't see this post. Haven't been able to see your blog until now. Blogspot is crazy sometimes. You'll have to go back and read my posts on depression. I was so upset by Robin Williams suicide death. There have been times when I have to say, "There go I but by the grace of God." He is our only hope.